Mapic 2025: A New Era for Commercial Real Estate in Cannes

The Mapic commercial real estate show is set to take place from November 4 to 6, 2025, at the iconic Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the event, which is expected to attract around 4,000 attendees, including 1,800 retail representatives seeking new commercial opportunities. With 160 exhibitors on board, the organizers are keen to enhance the international appeal of the show, adapting its format to meet the evolving demands of the market.

A Shift in Focus

The Mapic event has long been recognized as a pivotal platform for networking and business development in the retail and real estate sectors. However, as Francesco Pupillo, the show’s director, noted, the challenges of allocating human and financial resources for a three-day event in Cannes have prompted a reevaluation of its structure. “We have completely revised the event’s format,” Pupillo stated, emphasizing a renewed focus on the relevance and quality of connections made during the show.

This year, the event will feature a special “NextGen Retail Day” on November 6, which is invitation-only and will include workshops and discussions centered around the expectations of Gen Z consumers. Notably, students from three leading French business schools will participate, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Networking Opportunities

One of the standout features of this year’s Mapic is the introduction of the Retail Leaders Cocktail, designed to facilitate networking among senior executives from 50 of the largest retail companies and CEOs from approximately 40 major commercial real estate developers. This initiative aims to foster meaningful connections and collaborations, enhancing the overall value of the event.

Additionally, the opening cocktail party and gala dinner on November 4 will be combined into a single large-scale event, allowing for greater interaction among attendees. This shift reflects a broader trend in the industry, where networking is increasingly seen as a critical component of business success.

Global Expansion Focus

Mapic 2025 will place a significant emphasis on new brands emerging from Asia and the Americas. The event aims to showcase retailers and real estate developers from regions that have traditionally been underrepresented, such as the Middle East and India. This focus aligns with a growing trend of global expansion among retailers, as they seek to tap into new markets and diversify their portfolios.

A recent survey of 1,000 retailers attending Mapic revealed a strong interest in various regions for expansion. For instance, the Australian skincare brand Aesop is looking to establish a stronger presence in Europe, while the Danish brand Flying Tiger is eyeing opportunities in India. Other brands, such as Primark and L’Oréal, are reportedly targeting Saudi Arabia, while H&M has set its sights on South America.

Regional Insights

The interest in expanding into new markets is not limited to established brands. Emerging retailers are also keen to explore opportunities in regions like Africa and Asia. For example, Monoprix and Kiabi are considering expansion into Egypt, while Turkish apparel brands AC & Co. and Avva are targeting Algeria. This trend highlights the dynamic nature of the global retail landscape, where brands are increasingly looking beyond traditional markets to find growth opportunities.

The Evolution of Retail

The changes at Mapic reflect broader shifts in the retail industry, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies and altered consumer behaviors, prompting retailers to rethink their strategies. As a result, events like Mapic are evolving to address these new realities, focusing on the quality of interactions and the relevance of the brands represented.

The emphasis on Gen Z consumers during the NextGen Retail Day is particularly noteworthy. This demographic, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is known for its distinct preferences and values, including sustainability and social responsibility. Retailers are increasingly recognizing the importance of understanding and catering to this audience, making the discussions at Mapic all the more relevant.

Conclusion

As Mapic 2025 approaches, the event stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the commercial real estate and retail sectors. With a renewed focus on networking, global expansion, and the evolving needs of consumers, this year’s show promises to be a pivotal moment for industry stakeholders. The changes implemented in this 30th edition reflect a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the retail landscape today, making it an essential gathering for those looking to navigate the future of commerce.